An experimental model for induction of lung cancer in rats by Chlamydia pneumoniae

Objective: To assess induction effects of Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn) on lung cancer in rats. Methods: A lungcancer animal model was developed through repeated intratracheal injection of Cpn (TW-183) into the lungsof rats, with or without exposure to benzo(a)pyrene (Bp). Cpn antibodies (Cpn-IgA, -IgG, and -IgM) in serumwere measured by microimmunofluorescence. Cpn-DNA or Cpn-Ag of rat lung cancer was detected throughpolymerase chain reaction or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: The prevalence of Cpn infection was72.9% (35/48) in the Cpn group and 76.7% (33/43) in the Cpn plus benzo(a)pyrene (Bp) group, with incidencesof lung carcinomas in the two groups of 14.6% (7/48) and 44.2% (19/43), respectively (P-values 0.001 and <0.000compared with normal controls). Conclusions: A rat model of lung carcinoma induced by Cpn infection wassuccessfully established in the laboratory for future studies on the treatment, prevention, and mechanisms ofthe disease.